Future Congresses
International Ranger Congress
2027 in Sindicato de Guardaparques Nacionales de la República, Argentina (SIGUNARA)
6th European Ranger Congress in Romania
The 6th European Ranger Congress took place this year in Brașov, Romania – an inspiring meeting point for those who protect Europe’s nature every day. More than 260 rangers from 33 countries gathered to exchange experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen the connection between people and nature.
Austrian Participation
Austria was represented by six participants:
Birgit Gruber, Natalia Wrbka, Manuela Jenicek, Norbert Weixlbaumer, and Eva Bachinger.
Birgit and Natalia delivered a presentation and workshop on nature interpretation, using the return of the wildcat as an example.
Key Speakers
Among the speakers were Romania’s Minister of Environment Diana Buzoianu, Barbara and Christoph Promberger (founders of the Foundation Conservation Carpathia), representatives of the European Ranger Family, the Romanian Ranger Association, and members of the ERF Board.
Workshops
Nine workshops offered insights into central topics of nature conservation, including:
– Benefits and roles of national parks
– Volunteer involvement in conservation
– Junior Ranger programmes
– Digital wildlife monitoring (SMART)
– Environmental crime prevention and poison bait profiling
– Nature interpretation using the wildcat example
– Human–wildlife conflict
– Well-being and mental health for rangers
– Professional standards in the ranger profession
Excursions into the Carpathians
Despite rainy weather, participants explored the impressive landscapes of the Carpathians. The excursions showcased the work of the Foundation Conservation Carpathia, reforestation projects, innovative visitor centres, and habitats of returning species such as the European bison.
Today, the Foundation Conservation Carpathia already owns 28,000 hectares of forest and alpine grassland – an important step toward creating what could become Europe’s largest national park in the Făgăraș Mountains.
World Ranger Day
Joint initiative by the rangers of Kalkalpen National Park and Donau-Auen National Park
On July 31st, World Ranger Day is celebrated around the globe – a day dedicated to honoring the commitment of rangers who protect our natural and cultural treasures. At Kalkalpen National Park, this occasion was also used as an opportunity to take action together.
Claus Lackerbauer, a ranger at Kalkalpen National Park, organized a cross-border initiative with his colleagues from Donau-Auen. Working side by side, the rangers removed wildlife protection fencing that was no longer needed in the area – an important step in supporting the forest’s continued natural development.
After the successful initiative, the group enjoyed a delightful snack, providing an opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen their sense of community. A special highlight: Natalia and Manfred traveled all the way from Donau-Auen to take part in this event.
This successful collaboration is a perfect example of what World Ranger Day stands for: joint commitment to nature conservation that goes beyond regional boundaries.
Interview for the European Ranger Association by Christian Raffetseder
A closer look into his projects: junior rangers and volunteers in Donau-Auen national park.
Link to the article
Ranger Leaves Programm
Rangers helping rangers
„Your donation for a ranger.
The ranger becomes a leaf.
The leaf brings the tree to life.
Lots of leaves help us ensuring
wildlife protection worldwide.“
Ranger sponsorship program: a ranger asks people or companies interested in wildlife preservation, if they would donate a leaf for a ranger.
Interview for the European Ranger Association by Manuela Jenicek
She is reporting on her work as a ranger.
Link to the article
Austrian Ranger Association 